CONTENTS 6 2013 In Review 6 with Roy Leyva 12 Building A Community Tammy Wilson 16 It’s All About Connections Luther Cifers 21 Focus 21 Chuck Wrenn 25 The Native Way with Rusty Driver 30 Getting To The Basics Capt. Ricky Banks 35 LuminaLED 30 A Yak-Gear Spotlight 39 Peer Pressure Kayak Purchases Chris Payne 44 Long Accurate Casts Neil Taylor 48 Rattled 35 Tray Collins 51 In Pursuit Of Happiness Trapper Rudd
Wants You! Have you ever wanted to relive that big catch, tell your story, and enlighten others to how you accomplished it? Do you have a tip or technique everyone should by using? Well come aboard and contribute to The Fisherman’s Journal! All articles must be well written and contain quality photos. Unique, knowledgeable articles will be chosen for an upcoming issue. [email protected]
“My goal in 2013 was to try and learn Southwest Florida's inshore fishery. Now that the year is over, I can look back at my logs and start to understand the area’s top spe- cies; reds, trout and snook. Going into 2014 I will be able to compare notes letting me maximize and narrow down my time spent chasing those species and begin to focus on others as well as the freshwater fishery.”
“When it comes to fish- ing, Florida is probably the most diverse in the country. It's pretty amaz- ing. Best part of it is the pressure of so many an- glers and the fact that every thing is prey here. Makes it difficult some- times. I love the hunt and the obstacles of fishing here. It's not just going out and throwing a bait in the water to be successful. You need to bring your game to be consistent.”
Location Southwest Florida Boat Radisson 12’ Canoe Lure of Choice Rapala Skitter Walk SW8
BUILDING A COMMUNITY For a small plastic boat made for one person, the kayak has a way of bringing people together. Look anywhere that kayaks can be found and look closely, and you’ll find behind them a community. From freshwater sit inside kayaks and that call is answered on a regular basis. shooting down the rapids to saltwater sit on Groups like Heroes on the Water are spring- top kayaks fishing the flats, nothing brings ing up all over the nation, answering the call people together like the boat meant to single for a way to put those plastic boats to good them out. Even multi-passenger motorboats use. Heroes on the Water helps wounded don’t bring people together in the way that a warriors relax, rehabilitate, and reintegrate piece of molded plastic meant for one person through kayak fishing and the outdoors. can, and while there’s a kayak for everyone That’s their mission statement. Nobody could and gear for every kayak, when it comes to pull that off without the support of a commu- kayak fishing the one thing that really mat- nity behind it. When Anglers for Conserva- ters is the community behind the boats. tion holds their Hook Kids on Fishing pro- At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter grams, there’s one group they can always if you are in a Native, Hobie, Jackson or Old count on for volunteers when needed… the Town. When it comes time to sitting down at kayak fishing community. the campfire at Boondoggle after a day’s In the area of Central Florida, there are fishing, everyone does it as equals. It doesn’t two well-known kayak fishing clubs. One is matter who has the fanciest equipment, the the Orlando Kayak Fishing Club, which is fastest boat or the coolest new gear. No sir, at focused in Central Florida. In existence since the end of the day it’s about how much 2006, this no-dues club has over 1000 mem- money was raised to Help Keep Emily in her bers. Each month they have a meeting and school. And of course some days, it’s not have guest speakers come in and talk about about the kayaks at all. Some days it’s just all aspects of fishing and kayak rigging re- about showing up and seeing how much lated topics. They host a variety of events trash can be picked up from our beloved fish- such as a kayak swap day, where participants ing grounds before getting together and can try out other members’ kayaks, offshore throwing some food on the grill and just be- lessons for members, bioluminescent trips, ing together. swan round-ups on Lake Eola and much With community comes responsibility, more.
COMMUNITY By Tammy Wilson Born from that group and a need to expand to cover more of the east coast of FL, the Space Coast Kayak Fishing Club was formed a year and a half ago by Charles Levi, Jr. With over 500 members at this time, it’s a growing community of like-minded anglers whose fo- cus is mainly on the Indian River Lagoon system, which includes the Mosquito Lagoon and the Banana River. Like the OKFC, the SCKA also has adopted an area on the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to keep clean. Clean-ups are a regular part of the SCKA get- togethers. Scheduled trips, cookouts, tournaments, fund- raisers and even movie premiers about members are an- other big part of the community events. If it has to do with fun in Florida’s waters, there’s a place for it. From all day family trips down the Econ River to small out- ings to large tournaments, members of the community are always showing up. These communities are made up of men and women (don’t for a second think those women can’t fish!) and their families. Children are quickly becoming a main focus of the SCKA and it is looking into having a kids’ tournament in the near future, as well as just a family day of fishing together, to focus more on getting entire families out there on the water in 2014. There is also a Team Estrogen vs. Team Testoster- one tournament to be made up due to inclement weather in the works. This was created in an attempt to get more of the club’s women out on the water. It’s not all about the fun, though. Safety is an important consideration as well. Kay- aks by Bo, one of the home meeting spots for SCKA, and the occasional east coast OKFC meeting spots, plans to host a once a year American Heart Association CPR and First Aid class for members of the community who wish to go on the water with more education on what to
do in the event of an emergency out there. It’s also a great place to go and learn about all of the safety equipment available for kayak anglers on the water. If you are look- ing for kayaks, fishing gear, equipment, event information or kayak club members in the area, start at the stores that support the community… Mosquito Creek Out- doors in Orlando, Harry Goode’s in Mel- bourne, and Kayaks by Bo and KBB Out- fitters in Titusville. Support local busi- nesses that support local communities! No matter the club, both have mem- bers who are firmly dedicated to preserving the area they fish. Both clubs have mem- bers who regularly attend meetings and town So if you wish to become something a and county council meetings, public hearings little bigger than yourself, think about getting and have been there every step of the way as involved with your local kayak fishing club. the David of the world fights the goliath You’ll find yourself becoming part of one of Space X, who wishes to plant a commercial the most hidden and beautiful part of kayak launch pad in the middle of a national wildlife angling… which aren’t those Mosquito La- refuge, threatening the precious ecosystem goon sunsets; it’s the community that stands and one of the most bio-diverse estuaries in behind the sport. the world.
Rigging Your Kayak YOUR Way By Luther Cifers President of YakAttack LLC You’re the proud owner of a brand new fishing kayak, or at least what will soon become a fish- ing kayak. It might be your first or it might be your fifth, but either way you have the same question to answer, “How should I rig it?” This is a pretty big deal, right? You’re going to drill holes, spend money, spend time, and in the end either appreciate or tolerate whatever you end up with. The good news is there are plenty of op- tions out there and you can rig your kayak just about any way you want to. The bad news is that there are so many options it can be overwhelming. It’s All About Connections The best way to start this process is to the boat is rigged. You will also continue to consider the conditions and species you are most evolve as an angler and a paddler. As your skills likely to spend most of your time targeting, and and techniques grow and better and better “tools then work your way down from there, covering of the trade” become available, you will likely all of the kinds of fishing you plan to do. A setup want a platform that can evolve with you and the that’s strictly for fly fishing will be different sport. than one that’s strictly for trolling. Shallow wa- With all of these things in mind, many ter inshore might be different than big game. If kayak anglers today are taking rigging their kay- you’re a hardcore bass angler you will likely aks very seriously, and are choosing to build as want something different than the guy bottom much versatility as possible into their finely fishing offshore. To some degree, you’ve already consid- crafted fishing weapon. The days of being re- ered these things, and hopefully you’ve picked a stricted to a couple of permanently attached kayak that fits what you want to do. You may deck mounts or cutting large holes for flush even have multiple kayaks, each selected for dif- mounts is over. Those are still viable options and ferent scenarios. But not many anglers have the fit well in some scenarios, but now there are luxury (or the space) of having a kayak that’s more options than ever. If you want versatility in strictly for a single purpose. Most kayak anglers want a setup that will do multiple things well – your setup, remember this: it’s all about connec- often things that demand different things in how tions.
Let’s start with “traditional” connec- tion methods – those that deal with direct connection of a base of some sort to the kayak. The two most common are the RAM ball and socket mount and the post and spline mount. The RAM ball and socket mount is unbeatable for nearly infinite positioning and vibration dampening. The rubber coated ball grips well and is available in several sizes. The two typically seen on kayaks are the 1” ball and the 1.5” ball. The 1” ball is used for light duty applica- tions such as electronics mounts, and the 1.5” ball is used for heavier duty things like rod holders. RAM has an impressive assortment of attachments for this system, and many of these attachments are great It’s All About Connections for rigging kayaks. At YakAttack, we distribute At YakAttack, we saw these limitations of RAM products and use RAM components in direct mounting a few years ago – and this re- several of our products, including the PanFish sulted in the development of the GearTrac. Fac- and Zooka Tube. tory mounted track systems were pioneered by RAM also has a post and spline mount, and many of their products can be changed from Wilderness Systems and were in use by a few ball mount to post and spline mount and vice other manufacturers, but there was no surface versa by changing the attachment arm. The big- mount track and the universally employed track gest advantage of the post and spline mount is nut approach to attaching accessories meant rigidity. Because of the interlocking spline it will finding a screw that was just the right length. not slip – even in super duty applications. Post Too short and it didn’t reach the nut; too long and spline mounts are also available from Scotty, Cannon, and more recently RailBlaza. and it bottomed out in the track. You also needed Up until around 2010, these were the options a wrench to move or remove the accessory. We that dominated the sport, and they were pretty knew that tracks were potentially a great answer much always directly connected to the kayak. to putting more versatility into kayak rigging but The advantage to direct mounting was cost and we needed a different approach for connecting simplicity, while the disadvantage was bulkiness accessories, and the t-bolt attachment system and inflexibility. was the answer that we found. We dubbed it
Using the Mighty Bolt method, the head of the bolt goes into the GearTrac and the device – whatever it may be – is threaded to accept the stud end. This allows many attachments to use the same length bolt without bottoming out or creating other problems. It also makes removing a device as simple as twisting it to loosen the bolt connection and sliding it out of the track. The Mighty Bolt is what makes the GearTrac the most powerful and versatile connection available. There are several advantages to the GearTrac system. The first is that it’s low profile. Ranging from about 3/8” high (GT90) to 1/2” high (GT175), it’s the lowest profile mounting solution available that does not require cutting large holes in your kayak. Another is versatility. Most YakAttack accessories are available with the Mighty Bolt threaded into them, enabling “If you’re a hardcore bass angler you will likely want something different than the guy bottom fishing offshore.” them to be directly attached to the GearTrac. with two rows of screws, making it suitable for But other accessories can be attached as well. direct threading into most kayaks without re- Not long after producing the GearTrac, quiring nuts, washers, or any kind of backing we commissioned RAM to produce the Screw- inside the hull. For scenarios where a GT90 is ball, a YakAttack product based on RAM’s ball required or a backing plate is preferred and mount. The Screwball also attaches to the Gear- there is no hull access within reach of the Trac using the Mighty Bolt, giving anglers the mounting location, the Rigging Bullet allows ability to use RAM and RAM-ready accessories, remote installation of a FullBack backing plate but with the ability to remove the ball when not anywhere on the kayak as long as there is hull in use or position the ball when out on the water. access somewhere. FullBack backing plates are It was not long before other accessory compa- also used in super duty scenarios where exces- nies followed suit, and most manufacturers now sive forces will be put on the track. have some kind of GearTrac compatible acces- Sometimes the GearTrac will simply not sory in their lineup. This means today’s kayak fit, or if a single attachment point is all that’s angler has the best of both worlds: the ability to needed it might be overkill. In these scenarios, choose any attachment method they want, and the MightyMount is often a great solution. It has the option of moving it or changing it later. This a slot to accommodate the Mighty Bolt and is a has made GearTrac the universal mounting solu- heavy duty mount with a low profile and small tion for kayaks. footprint. There is a FullBack backing plate The GearTrac comes in different widths. available for the Mighty Mount as well, which The GT90 is about 7/8” wide, allowing it to fit not only increases the strength of the connection in tight spaces, while the GT175 is 1-3/4” wide but makes installation much easier than fum-
fumbling with nuts and washers. the water with your kayak before making any We sometimes get calls from customers kind of permanent modifications. If you need who really don’t like drilling holes in their kay- help or supplies, there are kayak specialty shops aks. If this sounds like you, take a look at the within reach of almost every kayak angler in the BlackPak. This is a highly customizable gear country and more and more are catering to the management system that will hold all of your rapidly growing kayak fishing market. And don’t gear inside, but also allows you to attach YakAt- forget – we’re always available here at YakAttack tack and other track compatible accessories to the to answer any questions you may have. top rails – without even installing a track. This can be a great solution for mounting your camera If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for at mounts, lights, flags, etc. and does not require www.yakattack.us or on our rigging forums drilling holes in your kayak. www.yakattackforums.com, give us a ring and One thing is clear – there are a lot of op- we will try our best to help you find the right so- tions available for rigging your kayak. No matter lution for rigging your kayak – your way. what style (or brand) you choose, remember that the cockpit of your kayak in a highly customiza- to be. For some that will mean adding nothing at NEXT MONTH: ble space that can become whatever you want it all and for some it will mean creating the ulti- mate fishing machine. Do your homework, plan Visibility your approach, and spend some quality time on
By Chuck Wrenn Focus is what helps an angler hone in on a specific target by helping him learn more about our fishery area, lure presentation or situational through a couple Virginia Institute of Marine awareness of changing conditions during a Sciences (VIMS) classes on their sport fish tournament or day on the water. Each of these tagging program and sharks of the Chesa- represents a different type of focus re- peake Bay. The proudest fishing related quired. For the target area, do you look for a lay moments of the year were when my son caught down or a submerged extended point alone? Or, his largest fish of the year during the annual do you take into consideration the wind direc- Shad Shootout to benefit Multiple Sclerosis, a tion, the sun position and the angle of your 19.5\" American Shad and when he achieved the cast? Most of us would defer to the latter ap- proach albeit unconsciously. So why then do we sometimes set goals for ourselves without the same measure of pre- cision? Each year, we as anglers set a variety of goals for ourselves, but as each year wraps up, I find myself reminiscing on what was and could have been. For 2013, I had set a number of goals, albeit many of them lofty and ambitious given the arrival of a newborn that was soon to be and the aggressive travel baseball schedule my son and I faced as a player and coach re- spectively. By the time our daughter arrived in June, I realized that the year was half over and a number of my goals had not been fulfilled. status of Virginia Junior Saltwater Angler by When I look back at a few of my goals, I catching six different saltwater species in a cal- am content in knowing I had made every effort endar year. to mentally check them off the list. I spent a While those achievements alone would be considerable amount of time ensuring our fam- sufficient for some, I also realize now that try- ily and home were prepared for the arrival of ing to fulfill fishing related goals for both my our daughter. I had spread the word about the son and myself was not the best idea. I can lure and kayak companies I represent while also count on one hand the number of times I went educating prospective new entrants into both fishing by myself in an attempt to satisfy my markets on the products and their various meth- goal of catching a freshwater and saltwater cita- ods of usage during expos, seminars and con- tion. In April, I fell short of that goal in fresh- versations through online and in person discus- water when my largemouth bass fell a 1/2\" short sions. at 21.5\" and later losing a second chance at the I also spent a number of hours on the wa- side of the kayak during a charity tournament in ter with my son, while also nourishing his mind September. >>>>>>
For 2014, I have the following focused angling goals..... In January-February, I will focus on at least one cita- I also have specific goals for lure selection and usage tion speckled trout..... as well...... In March-April, I will focus on at least one citation In the saltwater, I will focus on improving my skills largemouth bass...... with MirrOlures...... In May-June, I will focus on catching my first bull In freshwater, I will focus on expanding my knowl- red...... edge and skills with the PowerTeam Lures JP Ham- mershad, Swinging Hammer, Conviction Craw, and In July-August, I will focus on a catching my first Diesel Craw..... sheepshead...... What will you focus on in 2014? Will you continue to In September-October, I will focus on a citation have a shotgun approach and hope to hit your targets speckled trout of 30\" or more..... or will you use a mental \"scope\" and focus in on spe- cific targets? In November-December, I will focus on a catching my first citation striped bass....... The choice is yours..... Stay focused!
For 2014, I have the following In November, after three trips in a row I thought I had my saltwater citation goal fulfilled when I hooked into a beastly speckled trout. Alas, it wasn't to be.....she fell short focused angling goals..... by a minute 1/4\" but still got my heart pumping in anticipa- tion. These events have helped me change my approach for 2014. That is where the focus comes into play. For 2014, I have changed my focus and have developed a more targeted approach in my goals. I know these are adventurous and bold, but I am determined to challenge myself.
www.NativeWatercraft.com
The Way The Way Thank you for the interview Rusty. How long have you been kayaking? R.D. I have been kayak fishing since 2002. Before it was fishable. What drew you to the sport? R.D. What drew me to the sport was wade fishing in Sarasota Bay. I would go to a spot to wade and was committed to fishing the spot even if the fishing was bad. When I started kayak fishing it gave me the ability to move on to more productive waters if the bite was off. Also the fact that I could throw my kayak in the back of my truck and take it to the many launch sites where I couldn't launch my power boat. Small creeks, shallow bays, Mangrove shorelines. >>>>>> www.NativeWatercraft.com
solid platform to stand on while fishing. The High/Low First Class Seat is one of the most comfortable seats out there. I recently started fishing the Slayer 13 Propel and have fallen in love. Hands free fishing at its best and REVERSE. I fished a recent tournament us- ing the Slayer Propel for the first time and won the tournament. Being able to go in reverse is a game changer. The people I have had the op- portunity to meet at Native have been so down to Earth. The company is a smaller company that makes Where do you fish primarily and for what him to get its head up towards the end of the you feel like you are part of a species? fight. The fish was directly under the kayak and I Family. You frequently see new R.D. I primarily fish the West coast of Florida was palming the spool pulling hard I as I could Native owners being welcomed to from North Tampa Bay to the Everglades. Mostly and the leader broke at the tip and I ended up go- the \"Tribe\" which is pretty cool. Sarasota bays beautiful grass flats and mangrove ing the opposite way into the water. As I was get- lined shorelines. I also enjoy road tripping to ting my rod and myself back in the kayak a friend What is your New Year Resolution? Heroes On the Water. I was an active duty Ma- spots throughout the state that I have never that had been watching me fight the fish started R.D. My New Year's resolution is to be rine for eight years and feel it is the least I can fished. I recently drove to Naples Florida in to yell that there was a big Hammerhead in the more involved with groups such as HOW do. search of Peacock Bass a species I had never water. I yelled back and told him that wasn't very caught. I ended up catching 3 well worth the two funny to have him tell me he was serious. I could- hour drive to a place I had never fished. n't get back in to my kayak fast enough. Five min- It is a blast getting a crew of fellow kayak fisher- utes later a Hammerhead close to 12' long swam man together and road tripping to a new destina- up and under the kayak and faded off in to the tion and fishing. deep. As far as species I enjoy catching, I mainly fish I enjoy taking my kids and watching them apply Snook, Trout, and Reds throughout the year. the things I have shown them over the years. When Summer rolls around it's all about the giant Nothing better than seeing them catch fish. Tarpon migrating up and down the coast. I took my Girlfriend out last year for her first Kayak fishing trip and she landed a 34\" Snook. What fish is on your kayak fishing bucket list? That was also her first Snook. R.D. My bucket list fish would be a Big Permit. I One of my proudest moments was watching my 14 have caught several Permit but none from a year old Son Brendan win a prize for the biggest Kayak. Bucket trip place to fish would be Louisi- Red fish of the day in the Paddle-Fishing.com ana tournament held last month. He competed against I fished Louisiana for the first time during the 35 pretty salty adults and beat them. IFA Kayak Fishing Championship and fell in love with the fishery. Why Native? R.D. As far as my choice in kayaks Native water- I am sure you have quite a few epic fishing sto- craft design and build in my opinion some of the ries. Tell us about your best day on the water. best kayaks in the industry for the style of fishing R.D. I was fighting a Tarpon off the beach one i do. The slayer 14.5 has been my primary go to morning and was trying to put max pressure on kayak for tournament and fun fishing. It is a rock
solid platform to stand on while fishing. The High/Low First Class Seat is one of the most comfortable seats out there. I recently started fishing the Slayer 13 Propel and have fallen in love. Hands free fishing at its best and REVERSE. I fished a recent tournament us- ing the Slayer Propel for the first time and won the tournament. Being able to go in reverse is a game changer. The people I have had the op- portunity to meet at Native have been so down to Earth. The company is a smaller company that makes Where do you fish primarily and for what him to get its head up towards the end of the you feel like you are part of a species? fight. The fish was directly under the kayak and I Family. You frequently see new R.D. I primarily fish the West coast of Florida was palming the spool pulling hard I as I could Native owners being welcomed to from North Tampa Bay to the Everglades. Mostly and the leader broke at the tip and I ended up go- the \"Tribe\" which is pretty cool. Sarasota bays beautiful grass flats and mangrove ing the opposite way into the water. As I was get- lined shorelines. I also enjoy road tripping to ting my rod and myself back in the kayak a friend What is your New Year Resolution? Heroes On the Water. I was an active duty Ma- spots throughout the state that I have never that had been watching me fight the fish started R.D. My New Year's resolution is to be rine for eight years and feel it is the least I can fished. I recently drove to Naples Florida in to yell that there was a big Hammerhead in the more involved with groups such as HOW do. search of Peacock Bass a species I had never water. I yelled back and told him that wasn't very caught. I ended up catching 3 well worth the two funny to have him tell me he was serious. I could- hour drive to a place I had never fished. n't get back in to my kayak fast enough. Five min- It is a blast getting a crew of fellow kayak fisher- utes later a Hammerhead close to 12' long swam man together and road tripping to a new destina- up and under the kayak and faded off in to the tion and fishing. deep. As far as species I enjoy catching, I mainly fish I enjoy taking my kids and watching them apply Snook, Trout, and Reds throughout the year. the things I have shown them over the years. When Summer rolls around it's all about the giant Nothing better than seeing them catch fish. Tarpon migrating up and down the coast. I took my Girlfriend out last year for her first Kayak fishing trip and she landed a 34\" Snook. What fish is on your kayak fishing bucket list? That was also her first Snook. R.D. My bucket list fish would be a Big Permit. I One of my proudest moments was watching my 14 have caught several Permit but none from a year old Son Brendan win a prize for the biggest Kayak. Bucket trip place to fish would be Louisi- Red fish of the day in the Paddle-Fishing.com ana tournament held last month. He competed against I fished Louisiana for the first time during the 35 pretty salty adults and beat them. IFA Kayak Fishing Championship and fell in love with the fishery. Why Native? R.D. As far as my choice in kayaks Native water- I am sure you have quite a few epic fishing sto- craft design and build in my opinion some of the ries. Tell us about your best day on the water. best kayaks in the industry for the style of fishing R.D. I was fighting a Tarpon off the beach one i do. The slayer 14.5 has been my primary go to morning and was trying to put max pressure on kayak for tournament and fun fishing. It is a rock
Getting Getting to to the the Basics Basics With Capt. Rick Banks Let’s talk shore fishing. So many of us spect and keep searching. forget that not everyone has a Boat or Kayak/ Things are even better today with Google- Canoe and yet some awesome results can be had Maps. You would be amazed at some of the by taking the time to do some research and a lit- close up shots you can find and yes I have seen tle planning. Where should I go? What areas are schools of fish in their photos. As a Tournament available to me? How do I find spots to try and angler, I learned to use this tool and have always what gear do I need? And always Safety!!!!!!!! kept it dear to me as well as my Tide water sys- Let’s break it down. We are blessed to live tem on my computer. in a state with so much water and hidden oppor- So let’s talk about Gear. Standard Spin- tunities. As a Guide and avid Fisherman my re- ning, Bait Casting works well, as well as a good search started many Moons ago and I want to assortment of plugs and weed-less Plastic’s for share some of my journey in hopes it will moti- skipping under things. I also like short 5’ and 6’ vate you to do some research in your area as to rods for tight mangrove quarters. They help with what is available. As a Kid, Mom and Dad short casts and skipping. worked hard and could not afford to get a boat Yes you can pull them out of the roots, let alone a Canoe. I loved to fish and had to do a with a lot of practice. I use surfboard wax on my lot of research to find some areas. I had a lot of braid to float the line over roots and limbs as trial and error in spots and a heck of a lot of ped- well as lubricate it when chafing structure. It dling my bicycle. Helps. Safety is a must, as you can see; teach Well things changed as I grew up and I your children how to navigate in the swamps. started using my head to find spots, the first trick I have caught all kinds of fish doing this was using Mosquito control photo’s to locate thing call pond hopping. It is fun and can turn holes next to shore that I might be able wade or bad days into fish days even when you have a Outflow Pipes to try when the rainy season boat. It is fun to learn more about your area as started. Hidden lakes in the woods where to this well. Small or big fish, always remember to en- day still have Monster Bass in them. I have a lot joy the Journey and friendships made along the of land owner’s permission to fish, most still are way. good about it and some say no. Just show re- Tight Lines Capt. Rick Banks
Introducing the LuminaLED Utility Light What does my LuminaLED light do? The Lumina LED light is a true multipurpose outdoor adventure utility light. Let the Lu- have a hard time seeing your gear in the truck minaLED be the answer to your lighting prob- bed, tent or camping trail? We’ve got you cov- lems regardless of where you are or what adven- ered. Typical areas of use include (but are not ture you are on. The compact 4” LuminaLED limited to) Kayaks, Canoes, Pedal Boats, Paddle utility light by Yak Gear emits 360 degrees of Boards, Boats, Sailboats, Coolers, Camping, ultra-bright light or amber light to provide visi- Back Packing, Hunting Blinds, Truck Beds, bility and safety for outdoor recreation. This Trailers, Belt Loops. light comes from an array of 16 LED’s, 8 of which are white and 8 of which are amber. This How do I use my LuminaLED Light? color differentiation allows for versatility in dif- ferent applications of outdoor recreation. This To turn on your LuminaLED Light, hold the On/ LuminaLED comes complete with a charger for Off button down for 5 continuous seconds. To proplonged use. indicate it has power, the light will blink The light, features a 4 inch diameter and once. After this initial blink, press the On/Off weighs 9 ounces. The light, fully charged, will button again to select a mode for use. Note— provide light for 6-10 hours of constant use Upon turning the light on by clicking the On/Off when on solid mode and 12 hours of constant button, the light will start up in the last mode it use when in flashing mode. Additionally, the was working on before powering off. LuminaLED comes complete with two (2) To cycle through the modes press the On/Off mounting discs, for use with the included self button down for 1-2 seconds. To completely turn tapping screws or the included 3M tape dots. off your LuminaLED hold the On/Off button for The LuminaLED is shock proof, vibration 5 continuous seconds. proof, water resistant and it floats. Exterior Body Color: Blue What are the 9 light modes that the What do I use my LuminaLED light for? LuminaLED offers? Everything! Made for outdoor enthusiasts by In order of progression, the 9 light modes are: outdoor enthusiasts, we use our LuminaLED Bright White, Bright Amber, Dim White, Dim light for everything from night time kayak fish- Amber, Half White, Half Amber, Blinking Am- ing for sharks to finding the last cold water in ber, Rotating Amber, Rapid Blink (Distress) Am- the bottom of the cooler on a camping trip. Ever ber. >>>>>>>>
Where can I mount my LuminaLED light? bases. Note— Again, when using the 3M tape dots, you must find a smooth not rippled surface Wherever you want! As a utility light, limiting and clean the area of attachment with the alcohol the surfaces available for mounting or the ability swabs included. to easily transfer/transport the light would be, well, limiting the utility of the light. In order to How do I charge my LuminaLED light prior cater to the wide range of adventures your Lu- to use? minaLED light will accompany you one, we have developed a wide range of mounting options. To recharge the rechargeable Lumina LED -Mount the LuminaLED light to your body/ (Nautical Blue Shell): Attach the magnet charger accessories, by either looping the tether around (1) to the magnetic disc on your LuminaLED or through any limb or available accessory (belt light. Be sure that the Positive (+) and Negative loop, back pack, pocket, etc) and through the (-) poles are lined up correctly. Next, connect the loop hole on the body of the LuminaLED. small barrel end of your USB chord (4) into the -Mount the LuminaLED light to a metal sur- magnet charger. You can connect your USB face by use of the magnet disc that is on your Lu- chord to either the wall charger (3), car charger minaLED. You can install it to any other surface (4) or to your computer. Talk about versatil- by installing the mounting disc base to the de- ity. Charge your Lumina LED until the red light sired surface (which includes stainless steel or on the magnet charger turns color, indicating a aluminum. Your LuminaLED light comes with full charge. When you go out on your next ad- two (2) mounting discs that can be used with the venture, plug it in to your vehicle using the car self tapping screws included or as an alternative charger to insure you have power. No worries to self tapping screws, 3M tape dots are offered about low battery power with the LuminaLED and included as a method of mounting the rechargeable.
By Chris Payne
“The plain truth is, sometimes know but I didn't. I was anxious, in a hurry and ways I fish, this was the best kayak for me right when you think you know what didn't want the deal to get away. Whoops. now. Will I always be in it? Don't know. Was it a People who own a certain brand will in- you want, and then you go paddle herently recommend the kayak they paddle (or better decision than one I would have made three or four years ago? Dang skippy. it, you change your mind.” pedal). It says they really enjoy the kayak they All of that to say, if at all possible, please have and it fits what they want to do. A little demo a kayak before you buy. If you need to quieter are the people who don't really like what find someone who might can help with that, they are in but made a HUGE ordeal when they message me on Facebook. I'll try to do my best bought Boat X so now they are a bit bashful. to find you a shop or person within an hour or so Somewhere in that mix are people who are look- that has that kayak. If nothing else, I can find ing for something else but don't want to say any- you someone to talk to about it. thing because they so highly recommended a Be smarter than I was and be happier in different boat. your kayak. Don't peer pressure kayak pur- The plain truth is, sometimes when you chase. think you know what you want, and then you go paddle it, you change your mind. The time to change your mind is BEFORE money changes hands. Getting recommendations will be easy but it will be diverse. If you are going to ask questions on a public forum, make them as spe- cific as possible. \"How does the Spearyak 13 handle in wind on large open water?\" That is a direct and specific question. Talking heads (yes me included), start cifically to the kayak you think is so cool. Does telling you about all these cool new kayaks that it fulfill my wants list? If so, it could be great. If Additionally, make sure the per- are coming out. We show you fancy pictures. not, better keep looking. At this point you may son giving you the advice/opinion has Then maybe you find a walk through video. be too deep in the hype and advertising to even actually paddled the kayak you are \"Man, that's a cool yak.\" You see some pretty listen. I know I was. I had decided that even talking about. I've had a couple of cool features you like. \"I might buy one of though it wasn't everything I wanted and it dozen people ask me about the Preda- these!,\" you think while you try to figure out might not deliver, I was going to buy Boat X. So tor from Old Town. I have looked one when the next lump sum of cash is coming in. I did. I bought into all the pomp and circum- over but have not paddled one. I am Tax return? Christmas cash? Returning all the stance surrounding it. While it is a very good very upfront with that info and recom- crappy gifts you got for your birthday and the kayak for some people, for me it was awful. I mend whenever possible a person to three extra blenders from your wedding gifts. hated it. It didn't do what I wanted it to do, I felt talk to about it. Then you go look at the fishing fo- some of the things talked about were oversold, I now find myself with a pri- rums. I wonder what the kayak guys think of and the hype sucked me in. I was more attracted mary kayak that not a ton of fishermen this boat? So maybe you ask the question but to a brand name than the function. in Central Texas are paddling. I own a you ask it too vaguely. Typing in \"What do you Malibu Stealth 12. It met more of my think about a Great Fork Spearyak 13?\" is too wants and needs than any other kayak vague. What do you want to do in the kayak? What could have avoided all of this headache? A I looked at. I think several eyebrows What limitations do you have? I could go demo. were raised when I didn't get another through a big long checklist here but I have al- Hobie or a Wildy but for the fishing I ready created it. Check it out: Think about I should have paddled the kayak first. do across the state, salt, fresh, the way these questions and think about the answers spe- That would have told me everything I needed to I transport, the specific places and
know but I didn't. I was anxious, in a hurry and ways I fish, this was the best kayak for me right didn't want the deal to get away. Whoops. now. Will I always be in it? Don't know. Was it a People who own a certain brand will in- better decision than one I would have made herently recommend the kayak they paddle (or three or four years ago? Dang skippy. pedal). It says they really enjoy the kayak they All of that to say, if at all possible, please have and it fits what they want to do. A little demo a kayak before you buy. If you need to quieter are the people who don't really like what find someone who might can help with that, they are in but made a HUGE ordeal when they message me on Facebook. I'll try to do my best bought Boat X so now they are a bit bashful. to find you a shop or person within an hour or so Somewhere in that mix are people who are look- that has that kayak. If nothing else, I can find ing for something else but don't want to say any- you someone to talk to about it. thing because they so highly recommended a Be smarter than I was and be happier in different boat. your kayak. Don't peer pressure kayak pur- The plain truth is, sometimes when you chase. think you know what you want, and then you go paddle it, you change your mind. The time to “Additionally, make sure the person giving change your mind is BEFORE money changes you the advice/opinion has actually paddled hands. Getting recommendations will be easy the kayak you are talking about.” but it will be diverse. If you are going to ask questions on a public forum, make them as spe- cific as possible. \"How does the Spearyak 13 handle in wind on large open water?\" That is a direct and specific question. Talking heads (yes me included), start cifically to the kayak you think is so cool. Does telling you about all these cool new kayaks that it fulfill my wants list? If so, it could be great. If Additionally, make sure the per- are coming out. We show you fancy pictures. not, better keep looking. At this point you may son giving you the advice/opinion has Then maybe you find a walk through video. be too deep in the hype and advertising to even actually paddled the kayak you are \"Man, that's a cool yak.\" You see some pretty listen. I know I was. I had decided that even talking about. I've had a couple of cool features you like. \"I might buy one of though it wasn't everything I wanted and it dozen people ask me about the Preda- these!,\" you think while you try to figure out might not deliver, I was going to buy Boat X. So tor from Old Town. I have looked one when the next lump sum of cash is coming in. I did. I bought into all the pomp and circum- over but have not paddled one. I am Tax return? Christmas cash? Returning all the stance surrounding it. While it is a very good very upfront with that info and recom- crappy gifts you got for your birthday and the kayak for some people, for me it was awful. I mend whenever possible a person to three extra blenders from your wedding gifts. hated it. It didn't do what I wanted it to do, I felt talk to about it. Then you go look at the fishing fo- some of the things talked about were oversold, I now find myself with a pri- rums. I wonder what the kayak guys think of and the hype sucked me in. I was more attracted mary kayak that not a ton of fishermen this boat? So maybe you ask the question but to a brand name than the function. in Central Texas are paddling. I own a you ask it too vaguely. Typing in \"What do you Malibu Stealth 12. It met more of my think about a Great Fork Spearyak 13?\" is too wants and needs than any other kayak vague. What do you want to do in the kayak? What could have avoided all of this headache? A I looked at. I think several eyebrows What limitations do you have? I could go demo. were raised when I didn't get another through a big long checklist here but I have al- Hobie or a Wildy but for the fishing I ready created it. Check it out: Think about I should have paddled the kayak first. do across the state, salt, fresh, the way these questions and think about the answers spe- That would have told me everything I needed to I transport, the specific places and
2014 Reader’s 2014 Reader’s Choice Choice Every angler seems to get the same thing for the holidays: BassPro gift cards, new tackle storage, or a certificate to your local kayak fishing warehouse, and with so many products out there to buy, it can be a bit confusing. So we rallied up the troops and asked a select group of read- ers what they will be gearing up with in 2014. The response was outstanding and inspired us to create a new series fit- tingly called The Reader’s Choice, where you inform us what kayak an- glers should be interested in. We gather the information you share and spread the word. This month, we bring you an amazing clothing line, a few lures you should know about, and kayak fishing accessories you just cannot leave home without. Stay tuned to TheFishermansJournal.com for updates. If you have a product the kayak fishing community needs to know about, tell us about it. Just leave a message on our Facebook page >>>>>>> (www.facebook.com/TheFishermansJournal) and we will do the rest! >>>>>>> Thank you and Tight Lines!
not get aggressive enough with the acceleration farther than monofilament. Baitcasting outfits “Getting the distance down first is important, and release of the lure will never achieve maxi- are excellent for making accurate casts. If a but being able to drop that lure in a specific mum distance. spinning rod and reel is your choice: A 7-foot As you strive to become a better caster, \"adding to 7'6\" rod is perfect for accurately casting artifi- spot with that long cast will yield results.” energy\" to the acceleration of the lure, work on cial lures. the distance but pay attention to where your The \"finesse\" of fishing for shallow water spe- casts are landing. This is a natural way to build cies like redfish is enhanced when utilizing very accuracy. Getting the distance down first is im- light lures. Heavier lures will obviously fly far- portant, but being able to drop that lure in a spe- ther than lighter ones with less \"acceleration fac- cific spot with that long cast will yield re- tor\" coming into play. But heavier lures sink sults. An example: The attentive angler may faster, picking up more grass and don't have the spot a feeding fish and realize that lure place- action of lighter selections. The best angler can ment in a specific location will be most likely to achieve the longer distances on casts with the get a strike. The honed skill of accuracy and lighter lures. distance achieved: The odds of a hook-up are There is no substitute for experi- much higher with the strategically placed cast. ence. Put some work into it. In time, the long, Keep in mind- your fishing equipment accurate casts become more of a habit than an and tackle choices also have an impact. To effort. It's very basic: But you will catch more maximize the results, have your reel spools and bigger fish. You can bet on it! filled to the optimal level to add that extra few Neil Taylor feet to your casting distance. Too little line on a Strike Three Kayak Fishing spool will limit casting distance. The line it- www.strikethreekayakfishing.com self: Braided line has zero stretch and will cast (Cell) 727-692-6345 The Long And rately \"place a lure where you want it\" has obvi- The Long And ous benefits. Anglers are able to set up farther away from where the fish are located but still get Accurate Cast a lure to the fish. The more distance between Accurate Cast the angler and fish, the less likely it is that they By Neil Taylor will know that you're there. Long casters are also working the lure through more territory, Casting lures to saltwater gamefish is translating to more possibilities for the lure to probably the most underrated pass by the location of a predator. and overlooked skill. Casting is the first item I The distance factor has a great deal to do evaluate or teach when I take a client out on the with good technique. That technique water. If you want to have a lot better overall is improved with practice and experience. For results: Make an effort to improve your casting the untutored or beginner: The art of the long abilities. Long, accurate casts are crucial, par- cast is a learned combination of moving the rod ticularly in the \"clear\" water conditions seen in multiple directions (a swing from \"forward to the cooler months. As it is with the many facets back\") and then a thrust acceleration of the lure of angling, the difference between a decent an- forward again with the \"release of the line\" at gler and a great one are found in \"the details\". the appropriate time, allowing it to fly off the Excellent distance and being able to accu- spool at a decent rate of speed. Anglers who do
not get aggressive enough with the acceleration farther than monofilament. Baitcasting outfits and release of the lure will never achieve maxi- are excellent for making accurate casts. If a mum distance. spinning rod and reel is your choice: A 7-foot As you strive to become a better caster, \"adding to 7'6\" rod is perfect for accurately casting artifi- energy\" to the acceleration of the lure, work on cial lures. the distance but pay attention to where your The \"finesse\" of fishing for shallow water spe- casts are landing. This is a natural way to build cies like redfish is enhanced when utilizing very accuracy. Getting the distance down first is im- light lures. Heavier lures will obviously fly far- portant, but being able to drop that lure in a spe- ther than lighter ones with less \"acceleration fac- cific spot with that long cast will yield re- tor\" coming into play. But heavier lures sink sults. An example: The attentive angler may faster, picking up more grass and don't have the spot a feeding fish and realize that lure place- action of lighter selections. The best angler can ment in a specific location will be most likely to achieve the longer distances on casts with the get a strike. The honed skill of accuracy and lighter lures. distance achieved: The odds of a hook-up are There is no substitute for experi- much higher with the strategically placed cast. ence. Put some work into it. In time, the long, Keep in mind- your fishing equipment accurate casts become more of a habit than an and tackle choices also have an impact. To effort. It's very basic: But you will catch more maximize the results, have your reel spools and bigger fish. You can bet on it! filled to the optimal level to add that extra few Neil Taylor feet to your casting distance. Too little line on a Strike Three Kayak Fishing spool will limit casting distance. The line it- www.strikethreekayakfishing.com self: Braided line has zero stretch and will cast (Cell) 727-692-6345 rately \"place a lure where you want it\" has obvi- ous benefits. Anglers are able to set up farther away from where the fish are located but still get a lure to the fish. The more distance between the angler and fish, the less likely it is that they will know that you're there. Long casters are also working the lure through more territory, Casting lures to saltwater gamefish is translating to more possibilities for the lure to probably the most underrated pass by the location of a predator. and overlooked skill. Casting is the first item I The distance factor has a great deal to do evaluate or teach when I take a client out on the with good technique. That technique water. If you want to have a lot better overall is improved with practice and experience. For results: Make an effort to improve your casting the untutored or beginner: The art of the long abilities. Long, accurate casts are crucial, par- cast is a learned combination of moving the rod ticularly in the \"clear\" water conditions seen in multiple directions (a swing from \"forward to the cooler months. As it is with the many facets back\") and then a thrust acceleration of the lure of angling, the difference between a decent an- forward again with the \"release of the line\" at gler and a great one are found in \"the details\". the appropriate time, allowing it to fly off the Excellent distance and being able to accu- spool at a decent rate of speed. Anglers who do
RATTLED RATTLED
RATTLED RATTLED By Tray Collins Most hard-bodied lures have their time and place, even when thrown at the right time, the color of the lure can keep fish looking elsewhere. Almost all hard-bodied lures are depth specific; they may move a certain way, have pitch differences, and can be shaped to resemble a specific baitfish. Finding the right hard-bodied lure for every situation can get expensive really fast, but there’s a solution to this. There’s a magic lure by Bill Lewis Lures called the Rat-L-Trap – okay, there’s really no magic associated with this lure but anglers often think so because of its ability to draw bites from quality fish. In my opinion, the Rat-L-Trap is the most versatile hard-bodied lure, only limited by the angler’s imagination. Decades ago Bill Lewis created the Rat-L-Trap, a lipless crankbait that was intended to entice big hungry bass into feeding. The lures work so well at imitating the forage of many different game fish that it’s not uncommon to catch fish that you weren’t targeting, even while fishing in saltwater. The most basic, but effective, way to fish a Rat-L-Trap is with a constant retrieve. You can dictate the Trap’s running depth along the majority of your retrieve by allowing the ‘Trap to sink before you begin reeling it back in. Rat-L-Traps have a sink rate of about a foot per second, knowing that will allow you to put the lure anywhere in the water column. An internet search will bring up other articles that describe advanced ways to retrieve this lure, as stated before a Rat-L-Trap is only limited by your imagination. To build off of the above statement, I want to share some of the lesser seen ‘Traps that Bill Lewis offer. If your local retailer doesn’t offer these ‘Traps, they can be ordered directly from Rat-L- Trap’s website, www.rat-l-trap.com
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